Fire safety team pop-up at the Beacon

Kevin Quinn

A team of fire safety experts have been working with the temporary pop-up Gorebridge Beacon after a fire delayed construction of the community hub.

Acting as a temporary solution until the Community Hub is repaired and complete, the Pop-Up Beacon – at the former Bank of Scotland Building in the village - has provided a life line for the community as a centre to host community events and classes.

Gorebridge Beacon after fire broke out just weeks before it was due to be completed.

Olsson Fire & Risk (OFR) has assisted by providing guidance on fire safety management and fire safety training, allowing the temporary Beacon, at the former Bank of Scotland building on Main Street, to be used by the community for much valued local activities.

Jane Burridge, business manager for Gorebridge Beacon, said: “Gorebridge Community Development Trust are very grateful to Olsson Fire for their professional advice and excellent service at the pop-up Beacon.

“Kate very kindly came out to see us at short notice and was most helpful guiding us through what was required and providing all the necessary documentation.

“It was very generous of OFR to provide their expertise at no charge.”

Kate Swinburne, OFR senior engineer said: “In taking occupation of a temporary building, the Trust wanted to ensure that their fire safety provisions were adequate, and were seeking guidance on fire safety management and training required. We were more than happy to help by providing pro-bono fire safety advice to keep the project on track, following such an untimely incident.

“We visited the building and carried out a fire risk assessment. We also provided guidance on the fire safety management procedures, evacuation planning and what training was appropriate for staff and volunteers.

““We would like to wish Jane and all of the team at Gorebridge Community Development Trust success with completing the construction of the Beacon and we look forward to paying a visit to the café once it is open!”